Space and Sovereignty: The New Frontier of International Politics

The geopolitics of space technology has become a defining factor in international relations,shaping military strategies, economicpower structures and diplomatic alliances.This paper explores how satellitetechnology and space explorationinfluence global power dynamics,examining both historical andcontemporary developments. Theevolution of space technology, from theCold War-era space race to today’smultipolar competition, highlights thestrategic importance of satelliteinfrastructure for intelligence, surveillance, and national security. The increasing militarization of space, including the development of anti-satellite weapons and dedicated space forces, raises concerns about the weaponization of this domain. Furthermore, the rise of private space companies has transformed space governance, introducing new regulatory and ethical challenges. The competition for space resources, such as lunar mining and asteroid exploitation, further complicates international legal frameworks, as existing treaties struggle to accommodate modern realities. This paper also explores case studies of key spacefaring nations, including China, India and the United States, to illustrate the geopolitical consequences of space advancements. While international cooperation, as seen in initiatives like the International Space Station and Artemis Accords, has promoted peaceful collaboration, growing tensions among major space players indicate that space could become a contested battleground in the near future. To ensure a sustainable and cooperative space environment, international policymakers must address regulatory gaps, promote equitable access to space, and mitigate security risks. As humanity moves toward increased space exploration and commercialization, balancing competition with cooperation will be crucial to maintaining peace and stability in outer space.